skoo·kum I. \ˈskükəm\noun (-s) Etymology: Chinook jargon, powerful, evil spirit, from Chehalis skukm : an evil spirit II. adjective Etymology: Chinook jargon 1.: marked by strength or power < was a skookum eater most times, but he pushed his bowl away — Arthur Mayse > 2.: marked by excellent quality : first-rate < as handsome and healthy as skookum apples — Time >